Today Michigan State applies its land-grant mission to a
global stage as one of the top research universities in the world. Home to
nationally ranked and recognized academic programs, the university is a diverse
community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists
and leaders.

While the world faces new economic, social, and cultural
challenges, Michigan State’s founding principles of quality, connectivity, and
inclusiveness are as relevant as ever.

From researching and treating life-threatening diseases to
working side by side with farmers to address hunger and malnutrition to
advancing alternative energy technologies—Spartans develop sustainable
solutions on a global scale that create prosperity and make life better for
all.

Celebrating 150 Years of Land-Grant Vision and Values

The nation’s pioneer land-grant university, Michigan State is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Morrill Act of 1862 and the enduring power of the land-grant vision of higher education.

Sponsored by Justin Morrill, a U.S. representative from Vermont, and signed by President Abraham Lincoln, the Morrill Act granted land to states to establish and endow colleges that would provide both a practical and liberal education. Michigan State was the model for this land-grant system that democratized higher education and helped build a stronger nation. Today, MSU continues to lead the way as public research universities with land-grant values put knowledge and research discoveries to work to make life better around the world.